, thank you. that tragedy in aurora, followed by the shooting deaths of 20 first graders and six educators in newtown, connecticut, led the president to promise action. well, tonight, major garrett at the white house has learned some of what the president intends to do. major? >> reporter: scott, senior administration officials tell us the president is likely to unveil his new ideas to reduce gun violence next week. the president will push his gun control agenda in his state of the union address next month. in the meantime, we're learning some specifics about what that program is. the president wants congress to reinstate the assault weapons ban that expired in 2004, and extend criminal and mental health background checks to firearms sales at gun shows and through private dealers. vice president biden has devoted this week to hearing from all sides, including the n.r.a. tomorrow. >> we're here today to deal with a problem that requires immediate action, urgent action, and the president and i are determined to take action. >> reporter: he met today with victims of gun violence and gun contr